With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James Norman Wood “Woody,” who peacefully departed this life on July 19th, 2026, at the age of 79
Jim was born January 18, 1947, in Mount Vernon, Illinois, to the late Gilbert and Jeanette Wood
On October 6, 1973, Jim married the love of his life, Vivian Warner, in Mount Vernon. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and friendship, and were blessed with nearly 50 years of marriage. Jim was a gentle, kind-hearted man whose life was defined by love, compassion, and selfless service to others. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather (“Papa”), brother, and friend whose greatest joy came from caring for those he loved. His family always came first, and he never hesitated to put the needs of others before his own. He was an extraordinary caregiver, faithfully caring for his beloved wife during her illness, and later lovingly supporting his sister and brother-in-law. His unwavering compassion and willingness to serve others reflected the depth of his generous heart. To his grandchildren, he was simply the best Papa anyone could ask for. He cherished every moment spent with them and had a special gift for making them laugh with his goofy personality, funny faces, and playful sense of humor. He was known for bringing smiles to everyone around him and could brighten any room with his gentle spirit and infectious laughter. Jim enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time on the golf course, cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide, proudly wearing crimson, and celebrating every victory along with traveling to Bama home games and sharing the experience with family and friends alike. He enjoyed making Oreo Blizzards and chocolate shakes for his grandchild while also attending their special events and taking great pride in his yard work. He was meticulous in all that he did and appreciated a job well done.
Jim was also a devoted volunteer, generously giving his time to Angels on Assignment, faithfully ringing bells for The Salvation Army during the holiday season, and volunteering at SSM Health, where his kindness and willingness to help touched countless lives. Those who knew him will remember him as a dedicated father, loving husband, caring brother, loyal friend, and a man with a true heart of gold. His kindness, humility, and willingness to help anyone in need left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
While his family mourns his passing, they also celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life marked by unconditional love, quiet strength, unwavering devotion, and countless acts of kindness.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Jeanette Wood; his beloved wife, Vivian Wood; his sister, Mary Ellen Martin; his brother-in-law, Larry Martin; and many dear brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law of the Warner family, whom he loved as his own family.
He is survived by loving children, Kelly McMillen and husband, Andy, of Mount Vernon, and Chris Wood and wife, Michelle, of Wildwood, Missouri; his cherished grandchildren, Payton McMillen, Addison McMillen, Alexis Wood, and Jacob Wood; along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.
Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love, laughter, generosity, and selfless care will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:2
A Visitation will be held Saturday, July 25, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at First United Methodist Church in Mt. Vernon, IL. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 pm with Reverend Victor Long officiating. Memorials may be made in James “Woody”‘s honor to Angels on Assignment.
Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.
